First public beta of iOS 26 likely arriving this week for iPhone users

CALIFORNIA: Apple iPhone users could get their hands on the first public beta of iOS 26 as early as this week, with tech reporter Mark Gurman suggesting a rollout is likely around Wednesday, July 23.

In his latest Power On newsletter, Gurman wrote that “all indications” point to the iOS 26 public beta going live in the coming days. This follows a recent post of his on social media where he hinted at a mid-week release.

While Apple had earlier confirmed a July release for the iOS 26 public beta, it didn’t commit to an exact date. However, it now appears the wait is nearly over.

The iOS 26 public beta will be accompanied by first public test versions of other Apple operating systems, including iPadOS 26, macOS 26, tvOS 26, watchOS 26, and the HomePod software update. For the first time, Apple is also expected to release a public beta for its upcoming AirPods firmware.

Notably, visionOS 26, the operating system that powers Apple’s Vision Pro headset, will not be part of the public beta programme, according to the company’s beta website.

Anyone interested can join Apple’s Beta Software Program for free by signing up online. That gives users access to the public betas, but Apple advises backing up devices before installing, since early versions can contain bugs or performance issues.

Developer betas for iOS 26 and other updates have already been available for some time. A few years ago, Apple dropped the $99 annual fee previously required to access these test builds, although an Apple Developer account is still needed.

Looking ahead, Gurman has also reported that development of iOS 27 is set to begin soon. The next major software version will reportedly include features designed for Apple’s long-rumoured foldable iPhone, which could launch in the second half of 2026.

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